Living in Encinitas means enjoying coastal breezes and mild winters, but even our comfortable climate requires thoughtful energy management. With the new 2025 California building code taking effect this month, energy efficiency is more important than ever. Here are practical ways to reduce home energy costs during the winter months and create a more comfortable living space.
Set Your Thermostat for Winter Savings
Adjusting your thermostat to 68°F during the day and 65°F at night creates the optimal balance between comfort and efficiency during cooler months. When you leave home, lower it to around 60°F to maximize savings without sacrificing comfort. Smart thermostats can deliver roughly 8% savings on heating and cooling bills, about $50 annually for the average home. These devices learn your schedule and automatically adjust temperatures, preventing wasted energy while maintaining consistent comfort.
Use Curtains and Blinds Strategically
Take advantage of free solar heat during winter days. Open curtains and blinds during daylight hours to let natural sunlight warm your home, then close them at night to retain that heat and add insulation. Insulated cellular shades can reduce heat loss by up to 60% when properly installed, keeping your home warmer without running your heating system constantly.
Seal Air Leaks and Weatherstrip
Even in our mild coastal climate, drafts around windows and doors waste energy. Weatherstripping creates a tight seal that prevents heated air from escaping. Small gaps around pipes and wires add up quickly, so seal these openings with caulk or spray foam. EPA modeling shows that air sealing and adding insulation can trim heating and cooling costs by about 15% on average, making this one of the most effective energy-efficient home improvements available.
While exploring ways to make your home more efficient, discover more about living sustainably in our community through the local guides.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Change your ceiling fan direction to clockwise in winter so blades spin to push warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into living spaces. This simple adjustment circulates heat more effectively throughout your rooms, reducing how often your heating system needs to run.
Time Your Energy Use Wisely
Electricity costs more from 4pm to 9pm each day when demand peaks across San Diego County. San Diego Community Power offers renewable electricity options to Encinitas, and understanding these time-of-use rates helps you save money on your energy bills. Run dishwashers, washing machines, and other major appliances before 4pm or after 9pm to take advantage of lower rates.
Switch to LED Lighting
LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer. Replace all bulbs throughout your home with LEDs for immediate savings. Install dimmer switches and motion sensors in closets, bathrooms, and hallways so lights only activate when needed.
Maintain Your Heating System
Change air filters every one to three months because clogged filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder. Schedule annual tune-ups to catch minor issues before they become costly repairs. Keep furniture and rugs away from vents to maintain proper airflow throughout your home.
Use Water Heating Efficiently
Set your water heater thermostat at 120°F or lower to reduce the energy needed to produce and maintain hot water. Wash clothes in cold water to save energy while protecting fabrics from shrinkage and fading. Use microwaves or air fryers instead of conventional ovens when reheating leftovers, using up to 80% less energy.
Unplug Energy Vampires
Electronics and appliances continue drawing power even when turned off, creating phantom loads that waste energy. Unplug small appliances like coffee makers, toasters, and phone chargers when not in use. Use smart power strips to cut power to multiple devices simultaneously, making it effortless to eliminate this hidden energy drain.
If you’re looking for a home that combines energy efficiency with coastal comfort, I can help you find properties designed for sustainable living. Connect with me to explore homes that match your lifestyle and values.
Making these changes helps you lower electricity bills while supporting Encinitas’ commitment to renewable energy and climate goals. Start with the simplest improvements and build from there. Your home will be more comfortable, your bills will be lower, and you’ll be protecting our beautiful coastal community for generations to come.
Sources: palmetto.com, spectrumcs.org, constellation.com, encinitascoastalconnections.com, sdcommunitypower.org, cleanenergyconnection.org, theoneilgrp.com
Header Image Source: Johnny McNeil on Unsplash
